rhythm of the game

Kind of a "touchy feely" subject, but sometimes I can get into the rhythm (flow) of the game and I seem to do fine. Other times it seems like I'm playing a slot machine (mechanical) and I dont do well.
I think its kind of a Zen thing (I read the book by the way).

I can't seem to will my way into this state, sometimes it just happens.
I am a little familiar with eastern teachings, Zen, budda, the TAO etc.
I think you have to clear your mind, and become one with the game (LOL)
Any thoughts on this??

I actually kind of agree with you on this when im playing well my mind always seems on a diffrent levil with clarity and not much else but poker crossing my mind and my reads are usually dead on so i'd have to say i kinda agree with you on this one

Generally when I'm playing my A game, I'm really "in the zone." I suppose it's the same thing that Zen talks about.

In tournaments there really is a rhythm/pulse to the game, and if you are not attuned to it you can make serious mistakes. It has to do with your and your opponents' stack sizes. See here for a discussion.

A bit surprised AG didn't mention his rhythm master, the Magic 8-ball. He gets good mileage out of it.

I haven't play a whole lot of bigger money tourneys, but in a good size freeroll, it is real apparent to me that there is a pace, or rhythm to the proceedings. They usually start with a bang, and as recent ago as even last spring, they would stay heated for many orbits, maybe 15 minutes worth. Then things calm down, and basic ABC poker takes over for a long time before eventually the bubble stage takes over. Each sage has its own rhythm.

Seems that has calmed down a whole lot in 6 months. The rhythm is still there, but the pacing has changed.

So in answer to you underlying question... You are NOT nuts!

I never thought of it like this, as I am not the book smart person and dont know anything about Zen. But now that you mention it and everything, it seems like I am that kind of player